Dogs and Fitness

While looking through a Sunday newspaper, I happened to see an article written by Allison Takeda who did a study on the benefits of dog ownership versus a gym membership. The article stated, “ When it comes to getting active, you may be better off investing in a dog than a gym membership. Researchers in Great Britain surveyed 5000 people and found that those with dogs exercised up to six hours more a week than those who worked out at a gym or on their own. According to the study, the average dog owner walks his pet for less than 30 minutes twice daily and then longer three times a week. Those short spurts add up to more than eight hours of physical activity a week. In contrast, the average gym-goer works out less than two hours a week. Researchers say the difference can be attributed in part to varying levels of enjoyment. While 86% of dog owners said they enjoy the time with their pets, only 16% of respondents rated going to the gym favorably. Perhaps that’s also why dog owners are more likely to make physical activity a priority. Nearly 2/3s of the respondents said they walk their pets even when they’re pressed for time. Compare that with 46% of gym goers who admitted to often making excuses not to work out. Sound familiar?” So grab those leashes and get going!